Our Staff

Lisa Fenton – Principal

I am delighted to introduce myself as the Principal of Margaret River Montessori School. My husband and I and our 2 children love living in Margaret River and being a part of this brilliant community. Throughout my teaching career I have taught students ranging from Kindergarten through to Year 12 (TEE), from Methodist Ladies’ College (Claremont, Perth WA) to the remote Western Desert (Pilbara, northern WA).

Prior to beginning at MRMS I worked as an Education Consultant for the Association of Independent Schools of WA (AISWA) providing support to principals, teachers and education assistants working in the Aboriginal Independent Community Schools all over WA as well as developing and managing a portal (website) for use by the teachers and EAs in the remote schools. Outside of school I love gardening, reading and hanging out at the beach with our kids.

Jasmine Mann – Coordinator of Teaching and Learning

I have been a part of the Margaret River Montessori School community since 2010 when I started working as a directress in Middle Primary. After taking time out to have two beautiful children, I returned to the school in an education support role in 2017, following an interest in students at education at risk and a passion for student centered learning. In 2018 I moved into a leadership position as the Coordinator of Teaching and Learning which encompasses all the values that I hold dear in education, which is to support teachers and the principal to improve the well-being and educational outcomes of every child at the school. I feel very honored to have this role and to be part of a school that has strong visions and values and places student-centered learning at the heart of its pedagogy.

I try to instill a life-long love of learning in students and try to lead by example. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Economics, a Post-Graduate Degree in Broadcast Journalism, a Post-Graduate Degree in Primary Education, an International Montessori Teaching Diploma for 6-9 year olds, I am currently undertaking a Master’s in Education Leadership.

Outside of the world of education, I am strong believer in the importance of exercise, team work and fun! I practice and am a qualified yoga instructor, I have competed internationally for Australia many times playing Underwater Hockey and was part of the teams that won gold twice at the World Underwater Hockey Championships in 2013 and 2016. I have been surfing since I was a teenager, surfing for my university and in many locations around the world. I truly feel blessed every day to live in a part of the world with so many opportunities, an abundance of beautiful nature and people. Namaste!

Emma Dennis – Admin

I am excited at the opportunity to be part of a positive school environment here at Margaret River Montessori. I place great value in small, community minded schools – having grown up in a rural setting here in the South West, and see places of quality education as an integral in developing happy, healthy individuals and communities.

Having grown up in the Margaret River Region, I have seen rapid growth and change. I am raising 3 daughter’s here and my interest in their future and a healthy direction for our community led me to return to University as a mature age student. I am completing a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Anthropology, Sociology and Geography – driven by and interest in the social health and well-being of our communities.

I love living in this region and enjoying the abundant outdoor opportunities on offer – particularly surfing. I am enjoying my involvement in Margaret River Montessori as the Montessori Method of teaching resonates strongly with me, and working with children and families in this setting makes for an inspiring, pleasant work place.

Emma Beumer – Upper Primary Teacher (Casa Della Luna)

Hi my name is Emma Beumer. I have started this year as the Upper Primary teacher here in Margaret River Montessori School. I am originally from The Netherlands, but have lived in Australia for over 6 years. Moving to Margaret River was like moving to a part of the world which I can pretty much call paradise. So much amazing nature, stunning beaches and great waves. Most of all, though, I am happy to have a new ‘home’ at this beautiful Montessori School. It was a dream come true. I am a very passionate Montessori trained teacher. I love working with children, especially helping them to achieve the best they can. I am so glad to be part of such an inspiring school community. Outside school I love to go for a run or a surf. Once my work for the day has been done, that’s what you will find me doing.

Jacob Horsey – Upper Primary Teacher (Casa Del Sole)

I developed an interest in Montessori education over ten years ago and gradually over the years have gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Montessori philosophy. When I had my own children and became a primary teacher, I became deeply interested in Montessori’s work and realised how profoundly insightful she was, as well as relevant to modern education. For me, Montessori education has subtly been interwoven into the fabric of my life and that old Italian physician who was responsible for turning the education world upside down during humanity’s darkest hours keeps returning and knocking at my door bidding me to listen and follow the child.

Oliver Chanin– Middle Primary Teacher (Casa Del Mare)

Having recently emigrated from the Southwest of England to the Southwest of Australia I feel very privileged to have set up my family home in Margaret River, which such a stunning place, with an incredibly kind and welcoming community. To now be part of the MRMS community as well is a true honour. Having graduated with a Bachelor of Science (2:1 with Hons) in 2007, I became a rugby coach, this coaching gave me a glimpse of how rewarding teaching could be. It was at this point that I went back to university to complete a Post certificate of Education (PGCE) in 2010. Now 7 years into my teaching career, I have gained a huge amount of experience, teaching children of varying abilities and age ranges in many different educational settings. After years of encouraging children to follow their own dreams, I felt it was about time that I ‘took my own advice’ and so followed my dream of living in Australia. My wife, Abi, was equally as excited at the prospect of a new life ‘Down Under’ and so as a family of 4 (soon to be five) we left the beautiful rolling, green hills of Devon behind for the sun, sea and beaches of Margaret River. The more experience that I gain and the more I read about the Montessori approach the clearer it is to me that the Montessori philosophy is the best approach to suit the education of the whole child. For me to be able to prepare and educate a child not just for school, but for life is an incredibly powerful notion.

Lee-Anne French – Middle Primary Teacher (Casa Della Stella)

2019 will mark 20 years of my affiliation with the teachings of Dr Maria Montessori, both as an educator and parent. I love Montessori and really do believe it is as an undated and relevant pedagogy as it was over 100 years ago. It has so many aspects which are quite different to other approaches and methods, and I feel it allows the child to potentialise in his or her own way.

I first taught at our school in Middle Primary from 1999- 2003. From 2004 til 2012, I taught LOTE (Indonesian) at Geographe Primary School. I returned in 2013, because I missed teaching Montessori and I realised it is where I can have the most positive influence in my student’s education. I have worked in leadership positions at the school for 3 years in the areas of Montessori Curriculum Co-ordinator, but am happy to step back and concentrate all of my energies into my students. I am one of those fortunate ones WHO LOVE THEIR WORK 😉

My daughter is a current student, and we feel blessed to share this part of her learning journey together. She will complete Upper Primary and transition the the local High School at the end of this year.

I have a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education (1991) as well as a Graduate Diploma in Education Studies – Languages Other Than English (2008). However I consider my most privileged tutelage has been in my Montessori studies as offered to me by Association Montessori Internationale trained and well regarded Montessorian, Rhonda Sheehan, Principal of Beehive Montessori School. I am ever grateful for the influence of this wonderful friend and mentor.

I am also very grateful for the collaboration and knowledge sharing of my colleagues here at school. We really are lucky to have such a passionate, diligent and hardworking staff.I have been teaching since 1995, and strive to keep up to date and continually reflect on and perfect my practise.

When not at school, I will be spending time with my partner and daughter, friends and family. I like to garden, play records and guitar, paint either in watercolour of acrylic and oils, and take photographs. I also like to skate and dance. Life is GOOD!

Jan Johnson – Junior Primary Teacher (Casa Del Fiori)

Whilst completing my Early Childhood studies at Claremont Teacher’s College in the early 80’s, I was introduced to the Montessori Method of teaching through family friends who had chosen this path of education for their own children. In my last semester of studies I requested to complete my practicum at Beehive Montessori School which is where I began my Montessori career as a Teacher’s Assistant after completing college. My eyes were then opened to the potential of individual learning and not long after I travelled to Sydney and began my Association Montessori Internationale training. On completion I returned to Beehive and continued teaching for several years until the opportunity to start the Margaret River Montessori School arose. I then joined the dedicated band of parents and started the journey that continues today. I have enjoyed being a part of the school both as a teacher and a parent and have grown in many ways from this experience. I have developed a greater interest in both the Arts and the Outdoors whilst living in Margaret River and continue to enjoy the beauty of our region through walking, cycling and exploring with my family.

I have been a teacher and parent at Margaret River Montessori since Semester 2, 2009. After completing my Bachelor of Arts in Education (Physical Education and Science) and Bachelor of Education I then taught in WA and NSW.

Upon returning to WA in 2007 I became interested in Montessori Philosophy and completed my Montessori teaching studies, 3-6 years. I enjoy teaching children in Junior Primary at our school. The excitement on a child’s face when they master a job and have success with their work is joyful. MRMS is a lovely environment for the children to learn and follow Montessori principles.

I enjoy pursuing a healthy lifestyle and love living with my family in Margaret River. We feel very fortunate to be involved with such a special school community

Sue Gaunt – Junior Primary Teacher (Casa del Cielo)

My interest in Montessori began during 1991 when my eldest son was 3 years old. Being a state teacher who had taught for 9 years at that time, I felt the need to explore other options for my children. Knowing each child is different I felt there must be more: an education that would cater for their individuality, their need to move and to explore. Following visits to various schools and much research I became totally captivated by Montessori when I visited Beehive Montessori School and met Rhonda Sheehan. So the journey began.

As one of the founding members of Margaret River Montessori School I completed 18 months training with MWEI and eventually completed a Montessori Diploma 3-6 years with AMS.

I have been with the School as a parent, council member, parents and friend’s committee member, principal and teacher. My three children attended Margaret River Montessori School and I saw Montessori ignite the flame and joy for life learning in a natural way. Montessori became my passion: a wonderful way to learn and to live.

I have been involved with the Margaret River Montessori school community for many years in varying roles. I am passionate about languages and language teaching and have been the Japanese teacher in this school since 2002. During this time I have been fortunate to develop strong relationships with all our students and their families. I love seeing the far-reaching benefits of learning a second language being realised in our students and take much pride in building enthusiasm for Japan and its language in my classes.

Rona Mirtle – Art/STEAM Teacher

I have been a teacher for seven years and have had the pleasure of spending all of this time at MRMS. I love working here as I truly believe in the Montessori way and a holistic approach to children’s learning. Other things I’m passionate about are travelling, especially with my family, hanging out on my bush block with my dogs and being inspired by my environment which informs my creativity and art

Tony Lane – Music Teacher

I love music! As a professional musician for over 20 years, I started teaching private music lessons in 2001. Teaching slowly became a larger part of my life, and I completed my formal teachers training in 2009.

I feel very lucky to have the position of music teacher at Montessori, and my main focus is to pass on my love of music to the children. This happens through listening and dancing and singing and loads of hands-on activities, making real music as individuals and groups. The school is really supportive of the music course and I have the privilege of using a great space with plenty music instruments and other resources close at hand.

When I’m not teaching, I still play lots of music myself and can be seen performing regularly around Margaret River.

Anna Barker – Upper Primary Teacher (Casa Del Sole)

I am originally from London and moved to South West WA 6 years ago and am delighted to call this beautiful part of the world home. Prior to completing my teaching qualification, I studied at the University of Southampton, UK, and I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geography and Oceanography. My research in this area highlighted the importance of being able to question the world around us and I have been drawn to the Montessori philosophy for this reason. I am passionate about supporting students in directing their own learning and asking questions along the way.

I have taught across a range of age groups and in a variety of settings, including as an Education Support Teacher and overseas. I have three boys of my own, all of primary school age, who have taught me the importance of nurturing the whole child and the value of a supportive learning environment.

My passion for geography is reflected in my sense of adventure and I love discovering new places and finding out about different cultures, whether it is visiting somewhere new, going to the theatre or trying a new sport. I run regularly, enjoy soccer and love getting lost in a great book!

Sandi Macdonald – Education Assistant

I love working with the Upper Primary students as their Education Assistant. I love working with this age group and enjoy the intellectual challenge of the older children. It has been wonderful each year to support the students and witness their growth towards graduation.

Corinna Iddon – Education Assistant

My name is Corinna Iddon and I have been working at the Margaret River Montessori School, in the JP1 classroom (3 to 6 year olds) since 1994 – yes, that is a very long time!

Why am I still here…having known nothing about Montessori when I first started, I have learned over the years to love the environment which a Montessori school creates for the child and the teaching staff and the unique experiences that the Margaret River community can offer to the school. I also connect and admire with Maria Montessori’s philosophy and work.

Sue Peters – Education Assistant

I have been part of the Margaret river Montessori school junior primary class for the past 7 years. Working with the 3-6 year olds has been very rewarding for me, they have a wonderful energy and such a love of learning and are very open and honest.

I have lived in Margaret river for the past 12 years. I started as a swimming instructor then completed my certificate 3 in teacher assistant and certificate 4 in education support.

Cindy Heyes – Education Assistant and Middle Primary Health Teacher

While searching for an alternative education system Montessori education appealed to me for many reasons. The main reason being the Montessori method responds to the physical, cognitive, social and emotional characteristics of the child in each phase of development. When the opportunity arose to study Montessori units as part of my Bachelor of Education, I took it. Upon completing my teaching degree I was employed by the Margaret River Montessori school (1996) as their first middle primary teacher. From here I decided to continue my study of Montessori education by completing an A.M.I. Diploma in Montessori education for the junior years (3-6 training).

Since then, I have worked in both traditional and Montessori schools as a teacher and educational assistant. My time teaching and assisting in traditional educational settings has been rewarding, but I have remained convinced of the superiority of the Montessori pedagogy, curriculum and materials.

I currently work alongside the middle primary teacher as an educational assistant while being a mum of two boys. In my spare time I enjoy running, bike riding, making raw food and spending time with my family. My hope for the children at Margaret River Montessori school is for them to love learning and have genuine concern and care for one-another and their environment.

Trish Murray – Education Assistant

Originally from Ireland, I arrived in Australia and Margaret River in January 2013. I hold a Diploma in Montessori Teaching (0-6yrs) which I obtained in Ireland where I also gained invaluable experience from Montessori pre schools. I am passionate about children and the Montessori method of education. My 3 sons attended Montessori pre schools in Ireland and we practice the Montessori philosophy in our daily lives.

I have held various roles in MRMS from relief teacher and sports teacher in Junior Primary to Education Assistant in both Junior Primary & Middle Primary. My current role is as Education Assistant in Middle Primary and also as Teacher on a Wednesday afternoon for the 3 year olds.

Margaret River Montessori School is a great community and I am privileged to be part of it every day! When I have spare time, I like to read, walk, play tennis or badminton.

Denise Fowler – Education Assistant and 0-3 Playgroup Facilitator

I have worked with children for nearly 20 years as a Qualified Child Care Worker and then as a Children’s Services Lecturer. For the past 2 years I have had the pleasure of working here at MRMS as an Education Assistant in JP2. Working alongside such inspiring teachers and fellow EA’s has enabled me to build upon my own skills and have a true appreciation of each of our children’s unique Montessori journey.

When I am not working, I love spending time with my family, quenching my thirst for knowledge with reading and studying and visiting the sights this beautiful region has to offer!

Gayna Luck – Education Assistant

In February 2010 I became a School Volunteer Mentor. This was a very rewarding role and fired me up to widen my knowledge and become more involved with the education of children. In July 2011 I completed a full time course at Margaret River TAFE and passed Certificate III in Education Support. In October 2011 I was fortunate enough to be offered 6 weeks as a relief EA at Montessori in JP3. This position subsequently became vacant, was advertised, I applied and the rest, as they say, is history.

I love the Montessori philosophy, it encourages and empowers children to develop respect for themselves, others and the environment and also builds a strong academic foundation for a lifetime of learning. The quote “help me to help myself” say’s it all.

Out of school: Enjoy reading, gardening, photography, films and theatre. Love all creatures, great and small and my family. Believe a smile goes a long way to brighten up someone’s day and there should be more of it!!

Hayley Valesini – Education Assistant

I have been lucky enough to call Margaret River my home for the last 16 years. Growing up and spending my childhood years in a beautiful town like this has made me feel extremely grateful and privileged.

I graduated Margaret River Senior High School in 2009, upon graduating I moved to Paris to become an au pair for two small children. Soon after moving there, I began working at The Malherbe International Montessori School, I immediately fell in love with the concept and knew it was my passion. After completing my time abroad I moved back to Western Australia and began my Children’s House Assistants course through AMI. Upon completion, I moved home to Margaret River and was lucky enough to be given a position at this school where I am so very happy with my growing role. Working alongside such inspiring children and colleagues has had an extremely positive impact on my life and I look forward to my future at this wonderful school.

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RE: UP ADVENTURE WORKS CAMP WEEK 4 TERM 1 2019 Dear Parents, We are excited to announce that we have been able to arrange our camp for 2019. We will be going to Siesta Park from Wednesday 27th February until Friday 1st March 2019. The camp will be led by …